Orlando Pirates' Malian midfielder back to fight for his place in Abdeslam Ouaddou's squad after struggles with Premier Soccer League outfit

At the beginning of the 2025/26 season, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou brought in several players to strengthen his squad.

Among the players who were signed is the 23-year-old Malian; the midfielder came on board from Djoliba AC, hoping to deliver for the Soweto giants.

The talented midfielder was loaned to Chippa United for game time, but things have not gone according to plan, as he has struggled for game time.

Mariko managed just two appearances for the Chilli Boys before joining Stanley Nwabali out. He has now been pictured training with other Bucs players, maybe hoping to force his way into the first team.

Ouaddou has been giving all players a chance to prove they have what it takes to represent the club.

Well, if Mariko shows that in training, Ouaddou will surely give him an opportunity to deliver as the Sea Robbers chase both the Nedbank Cup and the Premier Soccer League.

On Wednesday, Pirates host the defending league champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, at the Orlando Amstel Arena.

This will be the third time this season the teams are meeting across all competitions; interestingly, all games have ended 1-1 in regulation time.

If the Soweto giants claim maximum points, that will be a massive statement that they are ready to win the league.